--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: There’s eight million people here…" description: "\"“There’s eight million people here pretending the others aren’t getting on their nerves. I believe it’s called civilization.”\" — Chris Cleave" image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/b08/chris-cleave-1698_civilization_there-s-eight-million-people-here-preten_3020580.png" --- # There’s eight million people here pretending the others… ![“There’s eight million people here pretending the others aren’t getting on their nerves. I believe it’s called civilization.” quote by Chris Cleave](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/b08/chris-cleave-1698_civilization_there-s-eight-million-people-here-preten_3020580.png) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/b08/chris-cleave-1698_civilization_there-s-eight-million-people-here-preten_3020580.png) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/b08/chris-cleave-1698_civilization_there-s-eight-million-people-here-preten_3020580.png) > ““There’s eight million people here pretending the others aren’t getting on their nerves. I believe it’s called civilization.”” [Chris Cleave](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/chris-cleave/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. People often ignore others' annoyances, pretending civilization is harmonious, but underlying irritation persists. **In simple terms:** We pretend civilization is calm while ignoring irritations. Key Takeaway Acknowledge and address minor grievances. Themes social behavior civilization irritation pretence human nature Mood irritated observant critical Type reflective analytical When to use this quote - workplace - public transport - shared living spaces - online communities Key Concepts social psychology conflict avoidance empathy Questions to Reflect On - What small annoyances do you overlook? - How can you foster honest communication? A Different Perspective Pretending harmony can breed resentment. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet [Civilization](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/civilization/) ## Related quotes > [“What’s on my mind? I could say you, but we both know I'd be lying. 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